Providing plenty of exercise is your first step toward curing separation anxiety in your dog. If you can't provide the time or duration of exercise your dog needs, consider hiring a dog walker or have someone take your dog on a long bike ride (after sufficient training, of course).
Perhaps you have a neighbor with a dog and can set up a 30 minute play date for the dogs. Teach
your dog to retrieve a Frisbee or a ball - great way to get him good hard exercise and save your energy at the same time! Get creative with ways to shed the excess energy. A tired dog is much more likely to accept separation - in fact, a tired dog may willingly want some time away to snooze.
Dogs with separation anxiety generally have low self-confidence so your job is to help the dog gain some confidence. Play games with your dog where your dog wins (such as fetch) and be liberal in praising and treating the dog. Hold 5 minute obedience lessons in your house and praise and treat for even beginning obedience items such as 'sit.' Attending an organized obedience training class is always beneficial to having more control over your dog - neither you nor your dog can ever have too much obedience training.
Dogs like structure and like feeling protected so provide an area just for your dog. The logical place is a crate. If your dog is crate trained, after proper exercise, lead him to the crate with a tasty treat. Give him something special and, hopefully, long lasting like a Kong chew toy stuffed with delightful concoctions. If your dog is not crate trained, I strongly suggest working on that but, you can also provide a different type of area just for your dog (the laundry room seems to be a popular site).
To train your dog to be more comfortable in this area, provide him bedding and spend lots of quality time in the area with him - play with him there, even feed him there. Make the particular area very appealing to the dog. Once you think the dog is more comfortable, leave him there for no more than a few minutes at first. If the dog barks or exhibits other separation anxiety symptoms, do NOT return right then - you must wait until your dog is calm to return and treat. If your dog exhibited symptoms during your brief absence, decrease your time away. Gradually you will increase the duration of your absence. Eventually, your dog should understand that you will always return.
Do NOT make a big deal out of either leaving or coming home. You can easily elevate a dog's anxiety level by becoming overly excited yourself. When
coming home, just enter the house and do not even address the dog - it will be hard at first but ignore him! Let him out of the crate, continue to ignore
him until he calms down. Make sure your visitors know the drill too.
Finally, dogs who exhibit separation anxiety are frequently confused about your leadership abilities. Remember, dogs are pack animals - they want a
clear alpha figure in their life. They do not want to be alpha - they want YOU to tell them what to do - think about it; it's much easier to follow (as long as you're confident you're being led correctly) than to lead - who really wants to worry about where the next meal is coming from?
A dog with separation anxiety might just be anxious about your whereabouts if he feels like he's in charge - it's possible that he feels somewhat responsible for your safety (this is a bit anthropomorphic but it's the only way to try and figure out what's going on in that doggie brain). Quite obviously, this is also where obedience lessons come in. Listen closely to the instructor so that you learn how to become a strong leader.
Lastly, practice patience. Separation anxiety can be cured but it may take a lot of time. I have a friend whose dog's separation anxiety was so deep that the dog was in danger (he chewed through a window once to escape the house). If the separation anxiety is to this level, take the dog to a veterinarian
immediately.
This is NOT normal separation anxiety, and it's quite possible that this type of dog will need a mild tranquilizer to get past the worst of the symptoms.
What is heatstroke?
In simple terms, heatstroke occurs when a dog loses its natural ability to regulate its body temperature. Dogs don't sweat all over their bodies the way humans do. Canine body temperature is primarily regulated through respiration (i.e., panting). If a dog's respiratory tract cannot evacuate heat quickly enough, heatstroke can occur.
To know whether or not your dog is suffering from heatstroke (as opposed to merely heat exposure), it's important to know the signs of heatstroke.
A dog's normal resting temperature is about 100.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Once a dog's temperature rises above 105 degrees, physiological changes start to take place, and the dog begins to experience the effects of heatstroke. At 106 to 108 degrees, the dog
begins to suffer irreversible damage to the kidneys, liver, gastrointestinal tract, heart and brain.
If a dog is experiencing heatstroke, you may observe excessive panting; hyperventilation; increased salivation; dry gums that become pale, grayish and tacky; rapid or erratic pulse; weakness; confusion;
inattention; vomiting; diarrhea; and possible rectal bleeding. If the dog continues to overheat, breathing efforts become slowed or absent, and finally, seizures or coma can occur.
The amount of damage a dog sustains when stricken with heatstroke depends on the magnitude and duration of the exposure. The longer and more severe the exposure, the worse the damage will be.
What to do:
1. Pay attention to your dog. Recognizing the symptoms of heatstroke and responding quickly is essential for the best possible outcome.
.
2. Get into the shade. If you think your dog is suffering from heatstroke, move it into a shaded area and out of direct sunlight. Apply cool water to the inner thighs and stomach of the dog, where there's a higher concentration of relatively superficial, large blood vessels.
Apply cool water to the foot pads, as well.
3. Use running water. A faucet or hose is the best way to wet down your dog's body. Never submerge your dog in water, such as in a pool or tub - this could cool the dog too rapidly, leading to further
complications, including cardiac arrest and bloating.
4. Use cool - not cold - water. Many people make the mistake of using cold water or ice to cool the dog. When faced with a dog suffering from heatstroke, remember that the goal is to cool the dog. Using ice or extremely cold water is actually counterproductive to this process because ice and cold water cause the blood vessels to constrict, which slows blood flow, thus slowing the cooling process.
5. Don't cover the dog. One of the keys to successfully cooling your dog is ensuring the water being placed on the dog can evaporate. Never
cover an overheated dog with a wet towel or blanket. This inhibits evaporation and creates a sauna effect around your dog's body. Likewise,
don't wet the dog down and put it into an enclosed area, such as a kennel. Any air flow during the cooling process is helpful in reducing the dog's body temperature. Sitting with the wet dog in a running car with the air conditioner blowing is an ideal cooling situation.
6. Keep the dog moving. It's important to try to encourage your dog to stand or walk slowly as it cools down. This is because the circulating blood tends to pool in certain areas if the dog is lying down, thus preventing the cooled blood from circulating back to the core.
7. Allow the dog to drink small amounts of water. Cooling the dog is the first priority. Hydration is the next. Don't allow the dog to gulp water. Instead, offer small amounts of water that's cool, but not cold. If the dog drinks too much water too rapidly, it could lead to vomiting or bloat.
8. Avoid giving human performance drinks.
Performance beverages designed for humans are not recommended because they are not formulated with the canines physiology in mind. If you can't get an overheated dog to drink water, try offering chicken-
or beef-based broths.
See a veterinarian:
Once your dog's temperature begins to drop, cease the cooling efforts and bring the dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Your dog's
temperature should be allowed to slowly return to normal once cooling has begun. A dog that's cooled too quickly may become hypothetic. Even if your dog appears to be fully recovered, the veterinarian needs
to check to determine if the heatstroke caused any damage to your dog's kidneys and liver. The effects of heatstroke can continue for 48 to 72 hours longer, even if your dog appears normal.
William Grant, DVM, a veterinarian for 20 years and former president of the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association, has treated
hundreds of cases of heatstroke, ranging from mild to fatal.
According to Grant, the most common cause of death following heatstroke is disseminated intra-vascular coagulopathy (blood coagulating throughout the body), or DIC, which can occur hours or days after the heatstroke episode. DIC can also be caused by pyometra or septicemia, but Grant says
heatstroke is the most common cause. "Once a dog develops DIC, it may bleed in the thorax, abdomen, nose and intestine," Grant says. "Once the blood-clotting factors are consumed, there is an inability of the blood vessels to prevent leaking; the condition is almost always fatal." For this reason, follow-up veterinary care is essential following a heatstroke episode, even if your dog seems to be completely fine.
Prevention is the best medicine:
The best treatment for heatstroke is prevention.
Especially during the summer months, it's essential to be aware of the potential for heatstroke. Knowing the signs of heatstroke, and taking the necessary steps to prevent it, will ensure your dog can have a safe and active life year-round.
ALERT - URGENT - SB 250....MOVES TO THE ASSEMBLY FLOOR
The following link is the full text of SB 250.
As the following analysis by the CFODC of SB 250 indicates, this is where the rubber hits the road. SB250 passed the Assembly Appropriations Committee and is now headed for the entire Assembly. Its thrust and certain eventual effects will be to eliminate most dogs and cats from California.
Why? Because for every possible violation of state or local animal law, your dog or cat and all your other dogs and cats will be spayed or castrated. The CFODC has issued below red flags to show people, but even if you never show your dog or cat, if they accidentally escape from your property because someone left a gate open, or your dog barks at night and violates a local noise ordinance, or your pet isn't licensed, or a couple of days overdue with his rabies vax....boom, boom, you either lose the animal or have him or her castrated.
In fact, even if you do nothing wrong, if your intact dog or cat is not licensed and your town does not permit intact-animal licenses, then in order to be legally licensed, the dog or cat must be spayed or castrated. Exceptions for animals certified by a vet as too sick for surgery, but NO OTHER EXCEPTIONS for intact animals over six months old.
Fantastic! Californians and animal (especially) dog owners who visit California to participate in its many dog and cat shows contribute $14 billion (yes, FOURTEEN BILLION DOLLARS) to the California economy every year, and the legislature wants to get rid of this enormous source of income as if it were chump change? The same legislature trying to figure out how to pay off a $30 billion deficit?
The Nitty-Gritty: What YOU can do
Following are a report on SB 250 from the CFODC; a link to Save Our Dogs wherein Californians can easily send opposition letters; and a full list of Assembly members with their contact information whom anyone from anywhere can call or write.
Assembly Floor
SB 250 passed the Appropriations Committee and will go to a full vote on the assembly floor. This is without a doubt the most destructive law ever for dog owners. Any dog at a show without a license on his collar, or off leash is in violation. The fact that obedience doesn’t allow tags in the ring, the fact that show dogs don’t wear tags in the ring, means NOTHING. You only get one chance. Once you’ve been cited, your dog is spayed or castrated and SO ARE ANY OTHER DOGS YOU OWN. You think they won’t come after you at a show? Just check around and see what they’re already doing.
The Burbank shows are September 26 and 27. SB 250 could be on the books by then. Maybe it’s not likely, but what if? What if AC decides to make an example of us at that show? You could lose your entire breeding stock. If not Burbank, how about Riverside, San Gabriel, any show, anywhere in California? Every time you enter, you’ll be putting your dogs at risk, all of them.
And if you’re one of those who flies under the radar and doesn’t license – and you get caught – you won’t need to commit a leash violation or anything else. You’ll be cited, dogs sterilized and you won’t be allowed to own an intact dog ever again.
If you don’t show but you compete in obedience or agility, chances are you already spay/neuter your dogs and think none of this applies to you.. Dogs get old, they retire, time for a new puppy. Where will you get that puppy? From a breeder? Yeah, right.
We have eleven days to make the biggest stink Sacramento has ever seen. Remind them that this bill will cost the state a fortune. Call, write, fax, email. Then do it again. Tell everyone you know to do the same.
Here is the Save Our Dogs website, where Californians can just provide their names and addresses, and Save Our Dogs will send an opposition letter for you to your own elected legislators. Everyone else from anywhere can and should read the website for all sorts of interesting background information and analysis of SB 250.
Save Our Dogs
Assembly Member List:
EVERY MEMBER of the Assembly needs to hear from you. The list is divided into Democrats and Republicans only because my computer isn't letting me integrate the two lists with cut and paste. But I cannot emphasize too strongly (with much thanks to SpinDoggies) that it's just as important to contact Republican assembly members as Democratic. Be sure the other side isn't leaving one person un-contacted.
Anyone from anywhere should contact all Assembly members if possible. If you live out of state your best argument is that you will never again visit California if SB 250 passes, because you would be afraid to show your dogs there or even to stay with friends or family with your pets.
As well, please don't make the "not my Isaac" mistake. If SB 250 passes in California, then similar laws will pass everywhere else. California is the big enchilada, and what obtains in California is what will soon obtain everywhere else.
Here is their contact info. Except for the room number, all addresses are the same: State Capitol, Sacramento, CA 95814
Democrats
Tom Ammiano (San Francisco)
916-319-2013
Room 2175
Fax 916-319-2113
Juan Arambula (Fresno)
916-319-2031
Room 2141
Fax 916-319-2131
Karen Bass (speaker) (Los Angeles)
916-319-2047
Room 219
Fax 916-319-2147
Jim Beall, Jr. (San Jose)
916-319-2024
Room 5016
Fax 916-319-2124
Marty Block (Lemon Grove)
916-319-2078
Room 3132
Fax 916-319-2178
Bob Blumenfield (Van Nuys)
916-319-2049
Fax 916-319-2140
Julia Brownley (Woodland Hills)
916-319-2041
Room 2163
Fax 916-319-2141
Joan Buchanan (San Ramon)
916-319-2015
Room 4167
Fax 916-319-2115
Anna M. Caballero (Salinas)
916-319-2028
Room 5119
Fax 916-319-2128
Charles M. Calderon (City of Industry)
916-319-2058
Fax 916-319-2158
Wilmer Amin a Carter (Rialto)
916-319-2062
Room 2136
Fax 916-319-2162
Wesley Chesbro (Santa Rosa)
916-319-2001
Room 2176
Fax 916-319-2101
Joe Coto (San Jose)
916-319- 2023
Room 2013
Fax 916-319-2123
Mike Davis (Los Angeles)
916-319-2048
Room 2160
Fax 916-319-2148
Hector de la Torre (South Gate)
916-319-2050
Room 4016
Fax 16-319-2150
Kevin de Leon (Los Angeles)
916-319-2045
Room 2114
Fax 916-319-2145
Mike Eng (El Monte)
916-319-2049
Room 4140
Fax 916-319-2149
Noreen Evans (Napa)
916-319-2007
Room 6026
916-319-2107
Mike Feuer (West Hollywood)
916-319-2042
Room 3146
Fax 916-319-2142
Paul Fong (Mountain View)
916-319-2022
Room 5135
Fax 916-319-2122
Felipe Fuentes (Arleta)
916-319-2039
Fax 916-319-2139
Warren T. Furutani (Long Beach)
916-319-2055
Room 3126
Fax 916-319-2155
Cathleen Galgiani (Merced)
916-319-2017
Room 5155
Fax 916-319-2117
Martin Garrick (Carlsbad)
916-319-2074
Room 2158
Fax 916-319-2174
Isadore Hall III (Compton)
916-319-2052
Fax 916-319-2152
Mary Hayashi (Hayward)
916-319-2018
Room 3013
Fax 916-319-2118
Edward P. Hernandez (West Covina)
916-319-2057
Room 4112
Fax 916-319-2157
Jerry Hill (San Mateo)
916-319-2019
Room 4146
Fax 916-319-2119
Alyson Huber (Lodi)
916-319-2010
Room 5175
Fax 916-319-2110
Jared Huffman (Petaluma)
916-319-2006
Room 3120
Fax 916-329-2106
Dave Jones (Sacramento)
916-319-2009
Room=2 06005
Fax 916-319-2109
Paul Krekorian (Burbank)
916-319-2043
Room 4005
Fax 916-319-2143
Ted W. Lieu (El Segundo)
916-319-2053
Room 3173
Fax 916-319-2153
Bonnie Lowenthal (Long Beach)
916-319-2054
Room 5158
Fax 916-319-2154
Fiona Ma (San Francisco)
916-319-2012
Room 3091
Fax 916-319-2112
Tony Mendoza (Norwalk)
916-319-2056
Room 2188
Fax 916-319-2156
William W. Monning (Santa Cruz)
916-319-2027
Room 5150
Fax 916-319-2127
Pedro Nava (Santa Barbara)
916-319-2035
Room 2148
Fax 916-319-2135
John A. Perez (Los Angeles)
916-319-2046
Room 3160
Fax 916-319-2146
V. Manuel Perez (Indio)
916-319-2080
Room 4162
Fax 916-319-2180
Anthony Portantino (Pasadena)
916-319-2044
Room 2003
Fax 916-319-2144
Ira Ruskin (Los Altos)
916-319-2021
Room 3123
Fax 916-319-2121
Mary Salas (Chula Vista)
916-319-2079
Room 2137
Fax 916-319-2179
Lori Saldana (San Diego)
916-319-2076
Room 3152
Fax 916-319-2176
Nancy Skinner (Oakland)
916-319-2014
Fax 916-319-2114
Jose Solorio (Anaheim)
916-319-2069
Fax 916-319-2169
Sandre R. Swanson (Oakland)
916-319 -2016
Room 6012
Fax 916-319-2116
Tom Torlakson (Antioch)
916-319-2011
Fax 916-319-2111
Norma J. Torres (Ontario)
916-319-2061
Room 4164
Fax 916-319-2161
Alberto Torrico (Fremont)
916-319-2020
Room 319
Fax 916-319-2120
Mariko Yamada (Vacaville)
916-319-2008
Room 5144
Fax 916-319-2108
Republicans:
Adams, Anthony - Claremont
Ph: 916) 319-2059 ;
Fx: 916) 319-2159
State Capitol, Room 4015
Sacramento, CA 95814
Anderson, Joe - El Cajon
Room 2130
Ph: 916) 319-2077 ;
Fx: 916) 319-2177
Berryhill, Bill - Stockton
Ph: 916-319-2026 ;
Fx: 916-319-2126
Room 3141
Berryhill, Tom - Modesto
Ph: 916-319-2025 ;
Fx: 916-319-2125
Room 4009
Blakeslee, Sam - San Luis Obispo
Ph: 916-319-2033 ;
Fx: 916-319-2133
Room 3104
Conway, Connie - Visalia
Ph: 916) 319-2034 ;
Fx: 916) 319-2134
Room 2174
Cook, Paul - Yucalpa
Ph: 916-319-2065 ;
Fx: 916-319-2165
Room 5164
DeVore, Chuck - Irvine
Ph: 916) 319-2070 ;
Fx: 916) 319-2170
Room 4102
Duvall, Michael - Brea
Ph: 916) 319-2072 ;
Fx: 916) 319-2172
Room 4139
Emmerson, Bill - Rancho Cucamonga
Ph: 916-319-2063 ;
Fx: 916-319-2163
Room 4158
Fletcher, Nathan - San Diego
Ph: 916-319-2075 ;
Fx: 916-319-2175
Room 2111
Fuller, Jean - Bakersfield
Ph: 916-319-2032 ;
Fx: 916-319-2132
Room 3098
Gaines, Ted - Roseville
Ph: 916-319-2004 ;
Fx: 916-319-2104
Room 4144
Garrick, Martin - Carlsbad
Ph: 916-319-2074 ;
Fx: 916-319-2174
Room 2158
Gilmore, Danny D. - Hanford
Ph: 916-319-2030,
916-319-2130
Room 5126
Hagman, Curt - Chino Hills
Ph: 916-319-2060 ;
Fx: 916-319-2160
Room 4116
Harkey, Diane L. - San Juan Capistrano
Ph: 916) 319-2073 ;
Fx: 916) 319-2173
Room 4177
Jeffries, Kevin - Murrieta
Ph: 916-319-2066 ;
Fx: 916-319-2166
Room 5128
Knight, Steve - almdale
Ph: 916) 319-2036 ;
Fx: 916) 319-2136
Room 2016
Logue, Dan - Chico
Ph: 916-319-2003 ;
Fx: 916-319-2103
Room 2002
Miller, Jeff - Mission Viejo
Ph: 916-319-2071 ;
Fx: 916-319-2171
Room 3147
Nestande, Brian - Riverside
Ph: 916-319-2064 ;
Fx: 916-319-2164
Room 4153
Nielsen, Jim - Redding
Ph: 916-319-2002 ;
Fx: 916-319-2102
Room 6027
Silva, Jim - Huntington Beach
Ph: 916-319-2067 ;
Fx: 916-319-2167
Room 2170
Smyth, Cameron - Santa Clarita
Ph: 916-319-2038 ;
Fx: 916-319-2138
Room 4098
Strickland, Audra - Westlake Village
Ph: 916-319-2037 ;
Fx: 916-319-2137
Room 4208
Tran, Van - Costa Mesa
Ph: 916)319-2068 ;
Fx: 916)319-2168
Room 4130
Villines, Michael N. - Fresno
Ph: 916) 319-2029 ;
Fx: 916) 319-2129
Room 4117
It feels good to treat your pet to human food every once in awhile. Those puppy dog eyes are hard to resist as they watch you eat and try to convince you that they are starving! It makes you want to give them a taste of everything you eat. But beware: Giving into those eyes and giving them human foods can actually harm them.
In 2007, the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center received more than 130,000 calls. Most cases of animal poisoning were caused by common human foods and household items.
Many foods we enjoy can be dangerous to animals. It's best to stick to pet food and a diet recommended by your vet. Here are a few of the most toxic foods that can harm your pet:
Bad news foods:
Avocados
They contain a toxic component called persin, which can damage heart, lung and other tissue in many animals. This fruit is very toxic to dogs, cats and most animals.
Beer
Alcoholic beverages can cause the same damage to an animal's liver and brain as they cause in humans. But the effects can be deadly on animals since they are much smaller than us. The smaller the animal, the more deadly the effects can be. Even a small amount of alcohol may cause vomiting and damage the liver and brain.
Nuts
Walnuts and macadamia nuts are especially toxic. Effects can be anything from vomiting to paralysis to death. Within 12 hours of eating the nuts, pets start to develop symptoms such as an inability to stand or walk, vomiting, hyperthermia (elevated body temperature), weakness, and an elevated heart rate. These symptoms can be even worse if your dog eats some chocolate with the nuts. The effect can cause kidney failure, often leading to death.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine, which can kill your pet if eaten in large quantities. Dark and unsweetened baking chocolates are especially dangerous. Giving your pup a piece of chocolate cake or even letting him lick the chocolate icing on the cake could cause him to become ill. Theobromine can also cause a dog or cat's heart to beat very rapidly or irregularly, which could result in death if the pet is exercising or overly active.
Candy
Candy or anything containing Xylitol (a common sweetener found in some diet products) can cause a sudden drop in an animal's blood sugar, loss of coordination and seizures. If left untreated, the animal could die.
Caffeine
Coffee, tea or any product that contains caffeine stimulates an animal's central nervous and cardiac systems. This can lead to restlessness, heart palpitations and death, depending on how much the animal consumes.
Grapes and raisins
Grapes and raisins can lead to kidney failure in dogs. As little as a single serving of raisins can kill them. And the effects are cumulative, which means that even if a dog eats just one or two grapes or raisins regularly, the toxin that builds in his system will eventually kill him.
Onions
Onions are another common food that can be highly toxic to pets. They can destroy an animal's red blood cells and lead to anemia, weakness and breathing difficulties. Their effects are also cumulative over time.
Medicine
Hide medicine from your pets just like you would from your children. The most common cause of pet poisoning is from animals ingesting a medicine or drug normally prescribed for humans.
And this is not just because furry pals are getting into their pet parent's medicine cabinets. In many cases, pet owners give their feline and canine friends an over-the-counter medication to ease an animal's pain. But acetaminophen and ibuprofen, the active ingredients in many common pain relievers, are extremely toxic to dogs and cats. They can cause gastric ulcers, liver damage, kidney failure and sometimes death.
Good news foods
There are a few things that you CAN give to your furry pal. However, you should always consult a veterinarian before introducing a new food item to your pet.
Although these foods are normally harmless, some animals have sensitive gastrointestinal tracts. So even these healthy treats should be avoided if they cause gastrointestinal upset for your pet. Keep in mind that these and other "extras" should not make up more than 5 to 10 percent of the pet's daily caloric intake.
Lean meats
Any cooked lean meat should be fine for most dogs. High fat meats, chicken skin and fat from steaks or roasts are not recommended. Ingestion may lead to gastrointestinal upset or even pancreatitis. This can be a very painful condition for dogs. In addition, most companion animals do not need extra fat in their diets. Never give your pet meat with the bone in it. Animals can choke on the bones, and they can splinter as well.
Vegetables
Carrot sticks, green beans, cucumber slices and zucchini slices are all OK.
Fruit
Apple slices, orange slices, bananas, watermelon are all OK. Make sure the seeds have been taken out; seeds are not good for your pet!
Baked potatoes
Plain baked potatoes is fine, but make sure they are cooked - no unripe potatoes or potato plants.
Bread
Plain cooked bread is fine, just make sure there are no nuts or raisins added.
Rice and pasta
Plain, cooked pasta or white rice are OK. Often veterinarians recommend plain rice and with some boiled chicken when gastrointestinal upset is present.
In case of emergency
Despite all the precautions you take to keep your pet pals safe, accidents do happen. That's why the ASPCA, Humane Society and animal advocates advise pet owners to keep the telephone number of their local veterinarian and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center - 888- 426-4435 - in a prominent location.
Common signs of poisoning include muscle tremors or seizures; vomiting and diarrhea; drooling; redness of skin, ears and eyes; and swelling and bleeding.
If you suspect your pet has consumed, inhaled or come in contact with a toxic substance, stay calm and call for help immediately. If you see your pet consuming anything you think might be toxic, seek emergency help immediately even if she or he is not exhibiting any symptoms.
The German Shepherd is an intelligent dog that loves to be trained and being a working breed, requires a task to stay happy. German Shepherd training is not difficult as this type of dog picks up things very fast and is an eager
learner.
German Shepherd training, if properly followed, will result in having a well mannered dog that will not have any behavior problems and in this respect it is essential to teach it to respect the owner.
The German Shepherd lives much like other dogs and thus may not easily associate itself with what occurred a few seconds ago.
German Shepherd training is easy as they are keen as well as intelligent and enjoy learning. Therefore, giving them basic obedience training should not pose much of a problem as many German Shepherds are even adept at learning tricks. One would be surprised at how well and quickly it can pick up what is taught and one should make it a point to reward it for good behavior as it may make a connection between accomplishment and reward even though it is not always easy for the dog to do so. Petting and kind words acts as a bridge in understanding what is desired from the dog.
Socializing the German Shepherd is an essential part of its training regime as it will ensure that one gets the best out of its breeding traits and also ensures that it will be comfortable with the owner. Behavioral training will
rectify bad habits such as jumping, car chasing, begging, climbing on furniture as well as chewing.
The German Shepherd should be dealt with firmly and consistently when training it and one should prohibit it from activities that are simply not allowed. Being ambivalent would only confuse it.
German Shepherd obedience training is also essential and making the dog understand commands such as ‘sit’, ‘no’, ‘stop’ are essential and can be performed in various locations so that the dog gets the hang of it and
generalizes its behavior as well as enhances its learning curve. The timing of the obedience training session should be frequent though not too long as extended sessions can easily bore the German Shepherd.
Ideally, one could spend ten to fifteen minutes twice or thrice a day teaching it commands such ‘sit’, ‘stay’, ‘heel’ and ‘come.
German Shepherd potty training is essential and it should be taught to keep its crate clean and go and eliminate outside. This will take time and requires a great deal of patience. The best time for German Shepherd potty
training would be when it is young since puppies often relieve themselves six times a day approximately and so, need to be taught where to eliminate. Potty training requires that it be taken out immediately after meals and there are several other methods of potty training it and one can choose whichever they feel is the most convenient for their lifestyle.
It is also necessary to teach your German Shepherd outside training so that it does not make enemies of your neighbors. A barking dog can be a nuisance and
one may need to use special collars that eliminate excessive barking in the dog as they give mild electrical stimulation every time it barks. German Shepherd obedience training is also a very important aspect of the dog’s training program and the owner should learn as much as possible about it. (Trainer in Long Beach, CA Terry Long) @ www.dogpact.com 
Those of us with responsibility for the health of canine athletes need to continually read and evaluate new scientific studies to ensure that we are taking the most appropriate care of our performance dogs. This article provides evidence through a number of recent studies to suggest that veterinarians and owners with canine athletes should revisit the standard protocol in which all dogs that are not intended for breeding are spayed and neutered at or before 6 months of age.
Orthopedic Considerations:
A study by Salmeri et al in 1991 found that bitches spayed at 7 weeks grew significantly taller than those spayed at 7 months, and that those spayed at 7 months had significantly delayed closure of the growth plates than those not spayed (or presumably spayed after the growth plates had closed).
(1) A study of 1444 Golden Retrievers performed in 1998 and 1999 also found bitches and dogs spayed and neutered at less than a year of age were significantly taller than those spayed or neutered at more than a year of age.
(2) The sex hormones promote the closure of the growth plates, so the bones of dogs or bitches neutered or spayed before puberty continue to grow. Dogs that have been spayed or neutered well before puberty can frequently be identified by their longer limbs, lighter bone structure, narrow chests and narrow skulls. This abnormal growth frequently results in significant alterations in body proportions and particularly the lengths (and therefore weights) of certain bones relative to others. For example, if the femur has achieved its genetically determined normal length at 8 months when a dog gets spayed or neutered, but the tibia, which normally stops growing at 12 to 14 months of age continues to grow, then an abnormal angle may develop at the stifle. In addition, with the extra growth, the lower leg below the stifle becomes heavier (because it is longer), causing increased stresses on the cranial cruciate ligament. These structural alterations may be the reason why at least one recent study has shown that spayed and neutered dogs have a higher incidence of CCL rupture.
(3) Another recent study showed that dogs spayed or neutered before 5 1/2 months had a significantly higher incidence of hip dysplasia than those spayed or neutered after 5 1/2 months of age.
(4) Breeders of purebred dogs should be concerned about these two studies and particularly the latter, because they might make incorrect breeding decisions if they consider the hip status of pups they bred that were spayed or neutered early.
Cancer Considerations:
There is a slightly increased risk of mammary cancer if a female dog has one heat cycle. But my experience indicates that fewer canine athletes develop mammary cancer as compared to those that damage their cranial cruciate ligaments. In addition, only about 30 % of mammary cancers are malignant and, as in humans, when caught and surgically removed early the prognosis is very good.
(5) Since canine athletes are handled frequently and generally receive prompt veterinary care, mammary cancer is not quite the specter it has been in the past. A retrospective study of cardiac tumors in dogs showed that there was a 5 times greater risk of hemangiosarcoma, one of the three most common cancers in dogs, in spayed bitches than intact bitches and a 2.4 times greater risk of hemangiosarcoma in neutered dogs as compared to intact males.
(6) A study of 3218 dogs demonstrated that dogs that were neutered before a year of age had a significantly increased chance of developing bone cancer, a cancer that is much more life-threatening than mammary cancer, and that affects both genders.
(7) A separate study showed that neutered dogs had a two-fold higher risk of developing bone cancer.
(
Despite the common belief that neutering dogs helps prevent prostate cancer, at least one study suggests that neutering provides no benefit.
Behavioral Considerations:
(9)The study that identified a higher incidence of cranial cruciate ligament rupture in spayed or neutered dogs also identified an increased incidence of sexual behaviors in males and females that were neutered early.
(3) Further, the study that identified a higher incidence of hip dysplasia in dogs neutered or spayed before 5 1/2 months also showed that early age gonadectomy was associated with an increased incidence of noise phobias and undesirable sexual behaviors.
(4) A recent report of the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation reported significantly more behavioral problems in spayed and neutered bitches and dogs. The most commonly observed behavioral problem in spayed females was fearful behavior and the most common problem in males was aggression.
(10) Yet another study showed that unneutered males were significantly less likely than neutered males to suffer cognitive impairment when they were older.
(11) Females were not evaluated in that study.
Other Health Considerations:
A number of studies have shown that there is an increase in the incidence of female urinary incontinence in dogs spayed early.
(12) Interestingly, neutering also has been associated with an increased likelihood of urethral sphincter incontinence in males.
(13) This problem is an inconvenience, and not usually life-threatening, but nonetheless one that requires the dog to be medicated for life. A health survey of several thousand Golden Retrievers showed that spayed or neutered dogs were more likely to develop hypothyroidism.
(2) This study is consistent with the results of another study in which neutering and spaying was determined to be the most significant gender-associated risk factor for development of hypothyroidism.
(14) Infectious diseases were more common in dogs that were spayed or neutered at 24 weeks or less as opposed to those undergoing gonadectomy at more than 24 weeks.
(15) Finally, the AKC-CHF report demonstrated a higher incidence of adverse reactions to vaccines in neutered dogs as compared to intact.
For these reasons, I have significant concerns with spaying or neutering dogs before puberty, particularly for the canine athlete. And frankly, if something were healthier for the canine athlete, would we not also want that for pet dogs as well?
But of course, there is the pet overpopulation problem. How can we prevent the production of unwanted dogs while still leaving the gonads to produce the hormones that are so important to canine growth and development?
The answer is to perform vasectomies in males and tubal ligation in females, to be followed after maturity by ovariohysterectomy in females to prevent mammary cancer and pyometra.
One possible disadvantage is that vasectomy does not prevent some unwanted behaviors associated with males such as marking and humping. On the other hand, it has been my experience that females and neutered males actively participate in these behaviors too.
Really, training is the best solution for these issues. Another possible disadvantage is finding a veterinarian who is experienced in performing these procedures. Nonetheless, some do, and if the procedures were in greater demand, more veterinarians would learn them.
I believe it is important that we assess each situation individually. If a pet dog is going to live with an intelligent, well-informed family that understands the problem of pet overpopulation and can be trusted to keep the dog under their control at all times and to not breed it, I do not recommend spaying or neutering before 14 months of age.
In the case of dogs that might be going to less vigilant families, vasectomy and tubal ligation will allow proper growth while preventing unwanted pregnancies.
Did you know that dogs love to socialize? Taking your dog to different places can be such a great adventure. When interacting with other dogs or people, your dog will develop the social skills needed to be a better pet. These
trips can stimulate them both mentally and physically.
Of course it is best if your dog has had some sort of basic training. It is important for you to have control of your dog in these situations. Once your dog has had basic obedience training you can more easily allow them to socialize with other dogs. You will have total control over them, thus
avoiding any unpleasant mishaps. As you take your dog to more places, you will start to see an even better behaved dog. More socializing leads to a more manageable dog.
Another benefit to socializing your dog is less boredom. With the proper amount of interaction with other dogs and people, your dog should be more content at home and less likely to attempt escaping or running around unnecessarily.
Giving your dog a variety of experiences with different situations is an important part of being a responsible owner. Also, by being together in a variety of places and social interactions your bond deepens. So take your dog
to as many places as possible. Allow your dog to develop into a confident individual and your relationship will blossom....
First let me say I did not write this but felt that it was very important and should be placed here.
Let's think about this for a minute. So you want to breed your female. You know what to expect if everything goes right. Your little girl will present you with little bundles of joy. She will lovingly nurse them and care for them until they are old enough to be weaned.
You and your family will find great joy in watching and playing with these little dolls, and then when the time is right they will all (or maybe you keep just one) go off to special homes to live out their lives as cherished companions. But have you given consideration to what if something goes wrong? I have listed here a few of the problems that I myself have personal knowledge of. Everything listed has happened either to me or someone I know.
These are not isolated incidents. I'm sure others could add miles to my list. Learn by the mistakes of others. Leave the breeding to those who REALLY know what they are doing, have the experience and know what to expect.
What if during the breeding.... ........
1) The stud dog you have chosen is carrying a venereal disease and gives it to your female. She not only doesn't conceive but you have to pay the vet bills to get her infection cleared up and she is now sterile. .
2) The stud dog you decided to breed your darling to is not experienced. Once the two dogs are joined tightly in a tie, he decides to chase the neighbors cat out of his yard. He bolts for the cat ripping his penis loose and causing your bitch to hemorrhage from within. .
3) Your modest girl decides she doesn't want the attentions of this gigolo mutt chosen for her without her consent. She snaps at him catching her tooth on his loose cheek and rips it open sending blood flying everywhere. He retaliates by sinking his teeth into her left eye. .
4) You leave your dog with the owner of the male dog because the breeding is not going very swiftly. In fact, it's been three hours and nothing is happening. The stud owner leaves the two dogs alone in the backyard. The dogs get out through a tiny hole in the fence and a truck hits your female. .
5) You pay the stud fee up front figuring you will make that and more back when the pups sell. The owner of the male guarantees the stud service to work or you can come back again. Well into the gestation time you discover your bitch isn't pregnant and you now must wait another 4 months for her to come back in heat in order to try again. Of course it doesn't work again, so in another 4 months you take your dog to another male and risk loosing another stud fee. .
6) You get her bred. Bring her home. She bothers you so you let her out (she is still in heat and still receptive to males). You here a commotion outside there is your girl tied up with the neighborhood mutt. When she whelps there will need to be DNA tests done on the pups. .
7) You get her bred. Bring her home. Let her out. (She is still in heat and receptive to other males) but you do not see the neighborhood mutt breed her. The pups are born but look very odd. You call the stud owner he suggests DNA testing (at your expense). You have a litter of mutts!. What do you do about the ones you have already sold?. .
Or, knowing she tied with the neighborhood mutt you decide to terminate the pregnancy and try again being more careful next time. But a few weeks later your female is very sick because you had her given a miss-mate shot which has caused a hormonal imbalance which in turn caused a uterine infection and now she has Pyometra and needs a complete hysterectomy. All plans of getting a litter is gone and your females' life is now in danger if she does not have the operation. .
What if during the birth....... ....... .
1) The puppies are too large for the female. She never goes into labor, the puppies die and she becomes infected by the decaying bodies. .
2) The puppies are coming breech and they drown in their own sacks before they can be born. .
3) The first puppy is large and breech. When it starts coming your female starts screaming, and before you can stop her she reaches around, grabs the puppy in her teeth and yanks it out killing it instantly. .
4) A puppy gets stuck. Neither your female nor you can get it out. You have to race her to the vet. The vet can't get it out either. She has to have an emergency caesarian section of course it is 3:00 am Christmas Day. .
5) A puppy is coming out breech and dry (the water sack that protects them has burst). It gets stuck. Mom tries to help it out by clamping her teeth over one of the back legs. The head and shoulders are firmly caught. Mom pulls on the leg, hard, peeling the flesh from the leg and leaving a wiggling stump of bone. .
6) A dead puppy gets stuck in the birth canal, but your female is well into hard labor. She contracts so hard trying to give birth that her uterus ruptures and she bleeds to death on the way to the vet. .
What if directly after birth....... ... .
1) The mother has no idea what to do with a puppy and she drops them out and walks away, leaving them in the sack to drown. .
2) The mother takes one look at the puppies, decides they are disgusting droppings and tries to smother them in anything she can find to bury them . .
3) The mother gets too enthusiastic in her removal of the placenta and umbilical cord, and rips the cord out leaving a gushing hole pulsing blood all over you as you try in vain to stop the bleeding. .
4) Or, she pulls on the cords so hard she disembowels the puppies as they are born and you have a box full of tiny, kicking babies with a tangle of guts the size of a walnut hanging from their stomachs. Of course all the babies must be put to sleep. .
5) What if because of some Hormone deficiency she turns vicious allowing no-one near her or the babies, who she refuses to nurse, or you have to interfere with. .
6) You notice something protruding from her vagina when you let her out to pee. You take her to the vet to discover a prolapsed uterus, which needs to be removed. .
What if when you think you are in the clear....... ......... .. .
1) One or more of the puppies inhaled fluid during birth, pneumonia develops and death occurs within 36 hours. .
2) what if the mothers milk goes bad. You lose three of your four puppies before you discover what is wrong. You end up bottle feeding the remaining pup every two hours, day and night. After three days the puppy fades from infection and dies. .
3) The puppies develop fading puppy syndrome you lose two. You bottle-feed or tube feed the last remaining baby. It begins to choke and despite your efforts to clear the airway, the pup stiffens and dies in your hands. .
4) Your female develops mastitis and her breast ruptures. .
5) Your female develops a uterine infection from a retained placenta. Her temperature soars to 105. You race her to the vet, he determines she must be spayed. He does the spay in an attempt to save her life, you pay the hundreds of dollars bill. The infection has gone into her blood stream. The infected milk kills all the puppies and the bitch dies a day later. .
6) All the puppies are fine but following the birth the female develops a hormone imbalance. She becomes a fear biter and anytime anyone tries to touch her she viciously attacks them. .
7) Mom and pups seem fine, the puppies are four weeks old and are at their cutest. However, one day one of the puppies disappears. You search everywhere but you can't find it. A few days later another puppy is gone. And another. You can't figure how on earth the puppies are getting out of their safe 4' x 4' puppy pen. Finally there is only one puppy left. The next morning you find the mother chomping contentedly on what is left of the last puppy she herself killed. .
What if the new homes are not so happy?...... ......... ........ .
1) You give a puppy to a friend. Their fence blows down so they tie the puppy outside while they go to work. A roving dog comes along and kills the puppy. Your friend calls you up to tell you about the poor little puppy and asks when you are having more puppies. .
2) You sell a puppy to an acquaintance. The next time you see them you ask how the puppy is doing. They tell you that it soiled their new carpet so they took it to the pound .
3) You sell a puppy to a friend (you give them a good price and payments). They make a couple of tiny payments. Six months later they move to an apartment. They ask you to take it back. You take it back and of course even the tiny payments stop. The dog they returned is so shy, and ill mannered from lack of socialization and training it takes you a year of work providing socializing and training to be able to give it away. .
4) You sell a puppy to a wonderful home. They love her like one of the family. At a vet check done by their vet it is determined that the puppy has a heart murmur. (Your vet found nothing when he checked the puppy before it was sold.) They love their puppy and want the best for her. They have an expensive surgery done. The puppy is fine. They sue you for the medical costs. They win, because you did not have a contract stipulating conditions of guarantee and so as breeder you are responsible for the puppy's genetic health. .
5) You give a puppy to your mother. she is thrilled. Two years later the puppy starts developing problems. It begins to develop odd symptoms and is suffering. Hundreds and hundreds of dollars worth of tests later it is finally discovered that the dog is suffering from a terminal condition that was inherited, possibly from your female since you know nothing about her family lines. .
6) One loving home decides your puppy is un-trainable, destructive and wants to return the pup and get a full refund, which you have spent on your vet bills. .
7) One loving couple calls you and is very upset because their pup has crippling hip dysplasia and want to know what you are going to do about it. You have spayed your female so a replacement is out of the question, lookslike another big refund. .
The Sale:....... ......... ... .
1) You put your ad in the local paper for your pups at the usual price and get only 2 responses and no sales. You cut the pup's price in half and broaden your advertising to 3 other newspapers in which the advertising totals $120.00 a week. .
2) You get a few more puppy inquiries from people who ask all about health testing you did before breeding and if the pups are registered with AKC. You tell them your dogs are healthy and it was enough and that you could get the papers. The callers politely thank you and hang up. .
3) The pups are now 4 months old and getting bigger, eating a lot and their barking is really beginning to annoy the neighbors who call the police who inform you of the $150.00 noise by-law. .
4) Your neighbors also call the humane society who comes out to inspect the care of your dogs. You pass inspection but end up feeling stressed and harassed. .
5) You finally decide to give the rest of the litter away but still have to pay the $1200.00 advertising bill and the $600.00 vet bill. .
So you gotta ask yourself: Do I feel lucky? Well, do ya, "breeder?
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Once your German Shepherd puppy is home with you and your family in from the breeder, you will want to start a schedule for grooming and cleaning your puppy. This is not only important for the appearance of your new German Shepherd puppy but also for its health and well being. It's not something that we often think about but puppies can not only produce an odor when not cleansed or groomed often but also may developed matted areas of fur and skin allergies as well.
Properly grooming your German Shepherd puppy will make you and your puppy feel very happy. The fur is the main area that will need to be groomed. This involves trimming of the fur, brushing and or combing of the fur. With long haired puppies you may want to comb through on a daily basis, trimming at areas that may be matted or may have a tendency to become matted. With curly and woolly dog breeds you will have to brush them every day to avoid any knots which tend to come about more frequently. The short-haired dogs with close tight hair or fur will only need a combing or brushing every two or three weeks. This is solely up you as the new owner but our recommendations should be kept in mind.
You will also need to do regular checking of your puppy's paws. This will include trimming of the nails as well. You will need to check for any kind of dirt or debris that can become lodged in between the toes. This is especially important if your dog spends a great deal of time outdoors in. The nails will need to be trimmed every few weeks. This will help your German Shepherd puppy with movement as well as prevent any ingrown nails that can grow inward into the paw pads. This can be extremely painful for the pup and will cost quite a bit at the vets office to have removed and then closed up. To avoid this problem you must do a check every two weeks. Trimming of the nails will also save your furniture as well. If you have hardwood floors you will want to make sure your German Shepherd puppy's nails are trimmed to avoid any damage. If your German Shepherd puppy's nails are making clicking noises on your floors, then your pup may need a trimming.
Ear care is very important for your little German Shepherd puppy. As a rule, the ears should always be a pale pink color and should not carry a fowl odor. If you notice anything odd you should take your German Shepherd puppy over to your vet to get checked. Cleaning your German Shepherd puppy's ears is a fairly easy task. You will want to wet a cotton swab or pad with a little bit of warm water and gently clean the inner areas of the ear. You only want to go as far as you can see and never go deep into the ear canal. Cleaning of the ears should be done just about as regularly as you would groom the outside of your German Shepherd puppy.
Dental care for your German Shepherd puppy is important as well. Cleaning of your dog's teeth should start at a very early age. As soon as the teeth start showing dental care should begin. Poor dental care is one of the main causes of early health problems in dogs. Decay of the mouth and teeth can lead to serious kidney and liver disease. This can lead to an early death. You should brush your German Shepherd's teeth as often as possible and take your pup into your vet once a year for a thorough cleaning.
Checking and cleaning your German Shepherd's eyes should be done at least every couple of days. You will want to see clean and clear eyes. Any sign of drainage or cloudiness is not preferred. To clean the eye area you will want to take a moist cotton swab and gently wipe the outer areas to remove any discharge. To remove any discoloration of the fur around the eyes, there are a few products that can remove these stains and prevent new ones. One product that has been highly praised for this common problem is Angels' Eyes. This product safely removes tear stains without any harmful chemicals and is completely wheat free.
Bathing your German Shepherd dog is another way to get rid of most of the smelly odors that most dogs carry. At first sniff, if your dog has a smelly odor then you will certainly want to bathe your German Shepherd puppy. Most dogs will need to be bathed once every two weeks. The exception will be the curly or woolly breeds, they only require a bathing every two months or so. Always remember to use the special dog shampoos; never use human shampoo. The special formula for dogs is designed to remove dirt and odor but still leave behind the essential oils under the fur that your German Shepherd needs.
Can you not see? The Republicans are doing it again. Just like the recount in 2000 when Republicans interrupted the count by banging on the doors and stomping and yelling in the halls. Now it's the Economic Recovery and Reinvestment Plan the Republicans are trying stop why? They never stopped any of George Bushes spending programs. What would work better? Their answer as always tax cuts, tax cuts tax cuts Republicans are a one trick pony.
George Bush promised that tax cuts would create jobs in 2000 so here we are eight years later with eleven million Americans out of work. MIT Grads standing on the corners in NYC handing out Resumes. So if the highly educated can't find work what do you think your high school education or a couple of years of college is going to due for you?
Let's look at the problems. This economy like and onion has many layers: first jobs, then lack of credit and the housing losses. The banks will not lend money because so many people are losing their jobs, they won't lend to small businesses because they are losing business or are afraid that they will be going out of business. Banks are over burden with foreclosed property they can't sell and they cost the banks money sitting empty.
We sent President Obama to the White to change this country and to make things better for us. We need to tell the Republicans to get the heck out of the way if they don't have any new ideas to help the country. All of a sudden they are the watch dogs of tax payers dollars. Who was it that got us into this mess in the first place. They try to place blame on the housing industry but they forget the Republicans allowed the regulations to be relaxed resulting in risker loans. Thus creating the current foreclosures all over the USA.
If you don't think this is a us vs them you need to think harder. Why do they always want to cut education for our children, most of their children go to private schools. Is it not the job of the Government to educate our children, to turn out the next generation of leaders? President Obama came from the public school system he has given hope to so many who have for so long thought they didn't had a chance.
We need the Economic Recovery and Reinvestment Plan to get people back to work. If your working you are buying food, paying taxes, paying mortgage, dry cleaning, credit card bills, car payment etc... the economy is moving.
We also need to make the banks aware that if we bail them out they must lend us our money. It is not for them to make themselves bigger and stronger but to help us the people.
As far as housing mortgage melt down is concern I think going forward we should do the following if you have a ARM the banks could rewrite they mortgage for the same amount without the adjustment, go fixed, give folks ten more years to pay them off keeping the payment they can afford. No loss to the banks, city, state or home owner, and It doesn't cost any money.
We voted for change not for the Republicans to try and tell us what will or will not work who do they think they are? What they keep putting forth (tax cuts)didn't work and they keep pushing they same thing. Help or get out of the way!! America needs new leadership and we put President Obama in office.
President Obama believes that if we do not act quickly, this recession could linger for years – and America could lose the competitive edge that has served as the foundation for our strength and standing in the world.
That's why the President has put forth an American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan that will jumpstart job creation and long-term growth by:
* Doubling the production of alternative energy in the next three years.
* Modernizing more than 75% of federal buildings and improve the energy efficiency of two million American homes, saving consumers and taxpayers billions on our energy bills.
* Making the immediate investments necessary to ensure that within five years, all of America’s medical records are computerized.
* Equipping tens of thousands of schools, community colleges, and public universities with 21st century classrooms, labs, and libraries.
* Expanding broadband across America, so that a small business in a rural town can connect and compete with their counterparts anywhere in the world.
* Investing in the science, research, and technology that will lead to new medical breakthroughs, new discoveries, and entire new industries.
We Won! The American people! The constitution says "We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, ensure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America."
The Constitution of the United States of America is the supreme law of the United States. Empowered with the sovereign authority of the people by the framers and the consent of the legislatures of the states, it is the source of all government powers, and also provides important limitations on the government that protect the fundamental rights of United States citizens.
So come on people write your Congressman and Senator. Let them know you are hurting. See he or she has a job you don't. They own two or three houses you don't you get the picture. We don't have the luxury to sit back and debate we need action. We the people back our President and for all you who don't we will see about you losing your job come the next election.
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